Veteran comedian Evelyn Bontogon-Guerrero, better known for her stage name Matutina, passed away on February 14, 2025.
Her relatives confirmed her death to media outlets, stating that she succumbed to acute respiratory failure due to volume fluid overload. Prior to this, she had also been battling with stage 5 chronic kidney disease and a hypertensive cardiovascular disease.
In honor of the late actress, we look back at her vibrant life and career.
Who was Matutina?
1. She was a Cancer
Matutina was born on July 10, 1946 as the eldest of seven siblings. She was 78 at the time of her death.
2. She rose to fame for her role in “John en Marsha”
Matutina made a name for herself in the’70s sitcom, which starred Dolphy and Nida Blanca. She portrayed a maid in the show who served as the amusing sidekick to Nida’s fictional mother, Doña Delilah.
3. She’s known for her iconic squeaky voice
Back in the day, if you heard a loud, squeaky voice rattling off from the television or a long squeal screaming “Missiiiiiiss!”, you immediately knew it was Matutina. The actress became known for her “suplada” or “maldita” roles, coupled with her signature eyebrow raise.
Other projects and programs she’s been on include Ang Inyong Lingkod Matutina, Dancing Master 2, Kapag Baboy and Inutang, Mga Kanyeon ni Mang Simeon, and Hiwalay Kung Hiwalay. In the 2010s she was cast in the star-studded comedy film Sosy Problems and the Kathniel romcom She’s Dating the Gangster.
4. She used her career earnings as a radio star and actor to help her family
Born from humble beginnings, Matutina took a vocational course in college in hopes of working immediately to pay for her family’s needs. At the same time, she began auditioning for radio shows for drama or dubbing gigs until she found the name that she would be known for throughout her career. The moniker Matutina came from a character of hers for a soap brand’s radio commercial.
5. She occasionally volunteered for outreach programs
The comedian brought joy to everyone on and off screen. In an episode of GMA’s Tunay na Buhay, she mentioned that she volunteers whenever she can, especially during special occasions. It was a practice she began when she was still the elected councilor of her barangay. On the day of her interview, Rhea Santos caught her reading to a group of kids at a daycare center during Araw ng Pagbasa.
Condolences to Matutina's loved ones, and may her soul rest in peace.
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